Imagine a Bluetooth, Wi-fi, web, and GPS-capable smartphone that notifies you of the end of its own lifecycle and automatically transfers your digital account to a new model.

If you think this kind of system would go a long way in helping put less e-waste in the ground, you are absolutely right. And the super sleek LINC smartphone may one day make it possible. According to Ecofriend, all LINCs would be leased. Once its time is up, the software is transferred automatically, while the new phone is already in the mail. The aging model is shipped back for recycling, where aluminum, glass and electronic chips are stripped from the device and reused in other LINCs. Everything else is also carefully recycled for minimal environmental impact.

So far the LINC is just a concept. However, it has already earned a finalist spot in Inhabitat's recent Greener Gadgets competition.